“Supporting the La Sportiva Mountain Running® team is one of many ways in which we aim to improve the vitality of the sport,” says Laura Fryer, La Sportiva ’s Marketing Manager. “Ever since our Mountain Running® team’s inception in 2003, our goal has been to provide a network of support to regional race directors, volunteers, talented athletes and quality races throughout North America. We are very grateful for the assistance that our associate sponsors will be providing in 2010, as this mission would be impossible without their help.” La Sportiva ’s running team roster includes over 25 athletes from around North America and includes such ultrarunning notables as Karl Meltzer, Luke Nelson, Leor Pantilat as well as the 2009 La Sportiva Mountain Cup Champions Matthew Byrne and Megan Kimmel. New additions to the La Sportiva team for 2010 include Andy Jones-Wilkins of Ketchum, Idaho, Nathan Yanko of San Francisco, CA, Ellen Parker of Seattle, WA, and Natalie Simms of Chattanooga, TN.

Melissa O’Kelley, Greenlayer Sports Marketing Director, states “Sponsoring the La Sportiva Mountain Running® team is a perfect fit for us, not only because of the high caliber of athletes on their team, but also because of pro-environmental philosophies that exist between our brands and the loyal following of active enthusiasts we both share. We hope that our inaugural partnership with La Sportiva will raise awareness about the environment and help shape a better world where we all live and run, locally and globally.” Greenlayer will serve as the official apparel sponsor of the La Sportiva team.

“At Ultimate Direction , we sponsor only the most passionate running teams and dedicated athletes. La Sportiva ’s team roster for 2010 includes some of the best endurance athletes in the world,” states Sue Edmiston, Ultimate Direction ’s Marketing Manager. “Water is an essential element for peak training, racing and performance. With our innovative array of hydration products we plan to keep Team Sportiva running fast in 2010.”